Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is honored to work with corporate partners to support our programs and services. Since 2014, Washington Trust Bank has been one of those partners—a relationship that continues today. In 2022, Erik Selden, NWABA’s board chair, joined Washington Trust Bank as their Senior Vice-President and Team Leader for Southwest Washington.
Erik’s relationship with NWABA spans about 13 years, when he met 18-year-old Billy Henry, who had founded the organization several years prior. They had an immediate connection. Erik’s father had lost his vision in one eye as a youth, and after learning of NWABA’s mission—to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired—he was ready to get involved. Erik’s participation with NWABA allows him to support his love of sports and continue the legacy of his father.
“ Washington Trust is committed to supporting local nonprofits that focus on personal and financial health and directly support the communities we serve. NWABA’s mission aligns with the bank’s goal to support those with the greatest need, recognizing that nearly 70% of those with vision impairments are unemployed. We believe in the association’s work to provide opportunities for the visually impaired to participate in sports and physical activity which gives them the confidence they need to overcome obstacles that come their way.” ~Erik Selden, Sr. Vice-President & Team Lead
Since first opening its doors in 1902, Washington Trust Bank has remained privately owned and independent. They focus on relationships, and it’s their commitment to the communities they serve that informs all their decisions, helping to do what is right for their clients.
With more than 40 branches across the Pacific Northwest, their move to expand to Southwest Washington was driven by a noticeable need in the area between Portland and Puget Sound. Washington Trust intentionally hires people who work, live, and play in the local markets they serve, which enhances their relationships within the community. Erik, himself, is a long-time Vancouver resident and collectively, the team in Southwest Washington has 50 years working in the market. They understand how to support the unique needs of the market and have the pleasure of watching it grow.
“Our local team is very excited to partner with NWABA and supporting its athletes,” says Erik.
In addition to providing financial sponsorship to NWABA, the bank encourages its employees to actively participate with the organization through volunteerism and raising awareness to the needs of visually impaired people.